Latin for “darkness”, Tenebrae was originally a service combining the prayers of the Office of Readings (matins) and Morning Prayer (lauds) from the three days of Triduum.
During the celebration of Tenebrae, as the choir and assembly wait in prayer for Easter’s first light by singing psalms and lamentations, the light is gradually extinguished, marking the temporary triumph of the Prince of Darkness over the Light of the World.